Khalid Encourages Class of 2020 to Follow Their Dreams in Graduation Speech

By Taylor FieldsMay 15, 2020

In the past four years, Khalid went from American Teen to 22-year-old superstar, touring the world and singing to his millions of fans. But, if he wasn't doing this, 2020 would have been the year he graduated college. And now, he's addressing this year's graduating class with an inspiring speech part of iHeartRadio's "Commencement: Speeches for the Class of 2020."

In his speech, Khalid explained that not only would he have been graduating college this year, but his sister is just beginning college. He said, "This year is particularly special to me because it also would have been the year that I graduated college myself. My younger sister is getting ready to pursue her college journey as well."

Although this is a difficult time in the world due to the coronavirus pandemic, Khalid said that, "One thing that won't change is the fact that this is your special moment. Don't let it undermine all of the hard work, sleepless nights and stressful mornings — you've overcome those obstacles."

Khalid also shared some advice that he's learned while starting his own career, and that is to follow your dreams and keep going no matter what. He explained, "At this moment in your life, take some time to think about the moment that you wanted to give up, but decided to keep going. Guess what? You made it. I can recall times of skepticism while pursuing my dream, but luckily, you've all overcome many obstacles throughout your college experience. Here's my advice: follow your dreams, but remember, there is no rush in attempting to do so. And also, don't feel the need to give yourself a time limit. Just because you're graduating, doesn't mean you're supposed to have it all figured out now. It didn't take a couple of days to get where you are now."

To wrap up, he left the Class of 2020 with these parting words: "Make new experiences, have fun, and don't forget to take it easy. This is your moment, so make it count."

Congratulations to the Class of 2020! iHeartRadio’s ”Commencement: Speeches for the Class of 2020” podcast celebrates this year’s graduating students as they take their next steps into the world. For more inspiring speeches from celebrities, athletes, business leaders and more, listen to the podcast on iHeartRadio.